AS Monaco Basketball’s Mike James led his side to a solid EuroLeague win over Fenerbahçe with an incredible 29 points to his name alone. The victory was crucial in keeping the Roca Team in contention for a top-four finish in the league.
After two straight defeats in EuroLeague, AS Monaco returned to winning ways on 20th March at home in the Salle Gaston Médecin, defeating Turkish side Fenerbahçe 91-82 in a crucial match for Top Four positioning.
The match, a rematch of last season’s quarterfinal playoff series won by Fenerbahçe over five games, had significant implications for the final phase of the regular season. With playoff qualification still open, both sides were under pressure.
Monaco’s Coach Vassilis Spanoulis made some tactical adjustments ahead of tip-off, choosing to leave out Greek centre Georgios Papagiannis. Injured players Nick Calathes and Vitto Brown were also absent, but Daniel Theis returned and was named in the starting five alongside Mike James, Elie Okobo, Alpha Diallo and Jaron Blossomgame.
Despite Monaco missing four of their first attempts from long range, they remained within reach throughout the opening quarter, which ended 28-26 in favour of the visitors.
The second quarter saw Monaco regain the lead after a 14-2 run, sparked by increased defensive intensity and shooting from distance.
“We had to react after the recent poor performances,” said James. “We played our game offensively and stayed united defensively when it mattered. Every game in EuroLeague is tough, especially against a team like that.”
By halftime, James had already posted 19 points, and Monaco led 47-43.
See more: Basketball: Monaco’s Mike James achieves new heights as member of All-25 EuroLeague Team
The third quarter was slower in pace, with both teams struggling to score consistently. Okobo and Jordan Loyd helped maintain Monaco’s slight advantage, and a three-pointer from Loyd in the final minute gave Monaco a 63-58 edge heading into the fourth quarter.
Spanoulis then rotated his players, giving minutes to Mam Jaiteh, whose early contribution extended the lead to nine points. A late surge from Fenerbahçe brought the score to 73-71, but Monaco pulled away once again, notably through two three-pointers from James—including one from long range—that restored the gap.
Ultimately, Monaco would control the closing minutes to secure the win, a result that keeps them in the running for a Top Four finish in the EuroLeague.
“This was a very important game against a direct competitor,” said Monaco’s Coach Vassilis Spanoulis post-match. “I’m happy with the win, it was a collective success thanks to good defence. We raised our level at the right moment. Every player fought on the court, and that’s the spirit we need to win games in EuroLeague.”
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Photo source: AS Monaco Basketball